Coverage of Panama’s corporate world, markets, startups, and trade developments. We provide news, analysis, and practical insights for business leaders and entrepreneurs.
Trump says trade talks with China have delivered a “win” for US farmers, highlighting China’s purchases of American soybeans ahead of a mid-May Xi summit. The push reflects the political importance of farm support amid tariffs and the US midterms.
Art Basel Hong Kong is being framed as a strategic showcase for the Greater Bay Area, as policymakers aim to prove the region is as culturally compelling as it is economically strong. The effort is tied to the GBA’s projected 2025 output of more than US$2.15 trillion.
Panama’s BDA is moving forward with a restructuring to become the Instituto de Fomento Agropecuario. The institution also reported recovering B/.42.1 million in loans in 2025.
China denies it retaliated against ships using the Panama Canal, and instead accuses Washington of trying to seize control of the waterway. The exchange underscores how geopolitical tensions can spill into global shipping routes.
Coca-Cola FEMSA obtuvo 81 puntos en la Evaluación de Sostenibilidad Corporativa de S&P Global, un logro ligado a su estrategia ESG y a avances en metas hídricas. El reporte también destaca digitalización comercial, resultados financieros y mayor participación femenina en posiciones de liderazgo.
Oil prices continued to rise as uncertainty over Iran persisted, even after U.S. President Donald Trump postponed his ultimatum on reopening the Strait of Hormuz for another 10 days. Operators remained unsettled, leaving prices without the expected calm.
Banana workers in Bocas del Toro are returning to jobs after a 2025 union crisis left thousands without income. Chiquita has restarted operations in phases, including remodeled farms and packing plants, supported by a planned investment.
China has detained Panama-flagged ships in connection with a port dispute, according to a report carried by Google News. The incident highlights how disputes abroad can directly affect vessels registered under Panama’s flag.
The Panama Canal Authority launched LoTSA 2.5, an upgraded long-term slot allocation program aimed at improving certainty and flexibility for shippers. The sealed bid auction is set for April 28, 2026, with implementation on May 16 and bookings for July 5, 2026 to Jan. 2, 2027.
China has denied retaliating against Panama-linked ships and accused Washington of trying to seize influence over the Panama Canal. The dispute highlights the canal’s continuing role as a flashpoint in U.S.-China tensions.
The Journal of Commerce reports that the FMC says it is monitoring the recent detention of Panama-flagged ships at Chinese ports. The situation remains under observation as details are assessed.
A report says China has ramped up checks on ships linked to Panama, focusing on vessels connected to Panama Canal terminals. The move follows heightened tensions tied to the Panama registry and Beijing’s reaction to a prior ruling.
A proposal to charge transit passengers at Tocumen Airport could hurt Panama’s competitiveness as an air-connection hub, the airport administrator warned. The initiative, pushed by Deputy Benicio Robinson Hijo, has raised concerns within the aviation sector.
Panama’s MIDA minister said there will be no increase in rice prices after a closed-door meeting with rice producers, millers, and input suppliers. The decision came despite pressure citing higher production costs.
Tocumen International Airport warned that a proposed $10 fee on transit passengers could harm growth and deter airlines. It says 74% of its traffic is made up of connecting travelers, so the impact could be significant.
The Panama Canal has introduced LoTSA 2.5 to improve transit slot allocation for customers. The update is aimed at increasing certainty and flexibility while adding operational changes to reflect current market dynamics.
A terminal-related dispute involving the Panama Canal disrupted port operations, according to Port Technology. The available details do not specify the parties or the extent of the disruption beyond the reported disruption itself.
Tocumen advirtió que una propuesta para cobrar $10 por tránsito en Tocumen y otras terminales podría reducir aerolíneas y afectar el crecimiento del aeropuerto. La medida, impulsada en la Asamblea como Ley 131, busca generar nuevos ingresos para destinar a hospitales.
China is preparing for a rare diplomatic sequence in May: Donald Trump’s expected Beijing visit (May 14–15) followed closely by Vladimir Putin, outside a multilateral event. Analysts say the back-to-back meetings underscore Beijing’s effort to manage relations with both major powers amid rising global turbulence.
El Mitradel advirtió que en el proyecto del Cuarto Puente se detectó exceso de trabajadores extranjeros, según fiscalizaciones. La ministra Jackeline Muñoz sostuvo que no se otorgarán más excepciones y que se priorizará el empleo panameño.